Do you accumulate too many plastic bags? Would you like some ideas for using that pesky plastic? Well, today, I have a fun and colorful tutorial on how to make pretty reusable wrapping from those troublesome bags. It’s easy to make these upcycled handmade gift bags. So let’s get started.

Step 1 – Collect Plastic

You can find some colorful plastic options from different retailers if you pay attention. But there are other sources for single-use plastic. For example, newspapers are delivered in a variety of colored plastics. In addition, some of the shipping envelopes have colors and even printed patterns. Also, keep an eye out for disposable colored table cloths after parties and gatherings.

Advertising Disclosure: Upcycle Design Lab may be compensated in exchange for featured placement of certain sponsored products and services or your clicking on links posted on this website.

Step 2 – Fuse Plastic into Fabric

Once you have collected some plastic, it is time to fuse the plastic into the fabric. You can make all kinds of patterns and designs or stick with a solid color. If you need to learn how to fuse plastic bags into the fabric, watch the 2-minute video tutorial below.

Step 3 – Cut

You can find many templates online or sketch out your own templates in your desired size. Just make sure that your template will fit on your piece of fused plastic fabric.

Blue painter’s tape works well for attaching the template to the plastic fabric.

This “fabric” is pretty easy to cut. I would not recommend using your good fabric scissors. Craft scissors will work just fine.

Since my template had handles, I also used an Exacto knife and a cutting mat.

Step 4 – Fold

You may find that some of your fabrics are stiffer, and some are more floppy. This is due to several factors. One is the type of plastic bags you use. The number of layers of plastic and the heat of the iron can also affect the feel of the finished product.

I recommend some experimentation before taking on a big project.

The stiffer fused fabric will generally hold a crease better, but the creases will relax over time. Follow the fold line on your template and re-crease as necessary.

Step 5 – Glue

Hot glue is the best glue to use for assembling fused plastic bags.

One caution is not to apply too much glue as it can melt the fabric.

I added a small square of plastic to mimic tissue paper to finish the gift bag.

If you would like some additional ways to use plastic bags to make reusable wrapping check out the video below.

Thanks for stopping by.

Happy Upcycling,

Cindy

If you like creating with plastic here are some other post and videos you may like.

Learn how to remove logos from bags in this quick 2-minute video.

Learn how to spin plastic bag rope.

Advertising Disclosure: Upcycle Design Lab may be compensated in exchange for featured placement of certain sponsored products and services or your clicking on links posted on this website.